Be Strong. Don’t Fear!
Key Verse to Read and Treasure
Say to those with fearful hearts, “Be strong, do not fear; your God will come”—Isaiah 35:4
For Insight
Fear is an unpleasant emotion caused by the belief that someone or something is dangerous, likely to cause pain or a threat. It is a normal reaction or response to an abnormal or uncertain event. God has given us the capacity of fear and in certain circumstances fear is a healthy response that could save us from harm or danger. If we are in a store shopping and hear gunshot, felt chaos break out, saw people running, fear would be a normal response and our reaction to run or hide might save our life. If we were out camping and saw a bear charging at us, fear would be a normal reaction to the danger introduced into our circumstances.
There are other things we could fear, and it would be in line to do so. Then there are the things we could fear, and God asks us to reject that emotion or mindset and trust him instead. God is not implying our fear is a bad thing or we are bad Christians because we are afraid, he simply asks us to trust him instead of giving into the fear that wants to take control over us.
Because fear is normal, and part of the human experience and our faith does not mean we are exempt from painful or dangerous experiences we do not need to be ashamed or pretend we don’t feel fearful at times. God wants to use our fearful moments to increase our faith and grow spiritually.
Mary had reason to be afraid. Joseph had reason to be afraid. John the Baptist and so many others had reason to be afraid, but they chose faith instead. They chose to believe in the promises and prophecies of God, the voice of God, the messages of God and because they chose faith and trust in God above their fear they experienced the power of God in their lives. When we choose God over fear in the light of uncertainty God will not fail us, he will not stay away, but he will come.
Dear God thank you for this word about fear and putting it in perspective. I won’t feel badly about being afraid because at times fear is a healthy reaction. Help me to know when fear is good and when I should quiet my fears by putting my trust in you. Amen
Christmas Mindfulness
Devotionally Yours 